City of Cadiz Water Department officials have detected increased algal activity in Little River, which is the community’s primary water source.
It is a naturally occurring condition that can cause temporary discoloration, as well as an earthy, musty taste and odor in tap water.
Some say the water may be less appealing in taste or appearance, but it is safe to drink.
According to officials, certified operators are monitoring conditions closely and conducting routine testing to ensure compliance with all applicable drinking water standards. Furthermore, the taste and odor are noted aesthetic characteristics of the tap water and do not affect its safety.
These qualities, some also say, may vary depending on an individual’s sense of taste and smell. Residents may notice a slight yellow or greenish tint in the water, along with the changed flavor.
So what can customers do?
+ They can chill water in the refrigerator — because colder water can reduce taste and odor.
+ They can add a slice of lemon, a splash of citrus or introduce some other additive — like cucumber or powders.
+ Consumers could also consider an NSF/ANSI-certified activated carbon filter for taste/odor reduction, similar to a Brita.
It is worth noting that boiling is not necessary, and may actually cook and intensify those earthy notes.
Along with that monitoring and adjusting at the Cadiz Water Plant, city officials are flushing parts of the distribution system as need to maintain water quality. Regional water partners are also on standby, should conditions evolve.
While Trigg County doesn’t have a burn ban in place, it is one of many communities in Kentucky observing a mild-to-moderate drought stage in the water table. Despite being more than nine inches above average yearly rainfall totals because of a swollen spring, the late summer and early fall have been dry. City of Cadiz leadership said water conditions typically improve following adequate rainfall that flushes the watershed, as do cooler overnight temperatures — which bring with them morning frosts.
All questions and concerns do need to be forwarded to the Cadiz Water Plant at (270) 522-8144, or by email at cadizwaterplant@cityofcadiz.com.
For some community members, this may feel like deja vu. It’s because this same instance occurred in 2023 — as many took to social media to express serious concerns, questions and dismay about drinking water quality.
With Little River as the source, a “river water” taste will always remain a possibility. And it was during that stretch that both Cadiz City Water’s Perry Alexander and Cadiz Public Works Director Craig Oakley mentioned that dipping temperatures and a lack of fresh rainfall could impact taste and color.
Other tips for consumers, they said, that could help with consumption include:
— A light bleaching of sinks, drain traps and garbage disposals, with boiling water, can positively impact water quality.
— New, or old, plumbing can have varying effects on flavor.
— And if all else fails, boiling water for at least three minutes can at least bring some peace of mind, but again, could enhance dirt flavors.
